July 14, 2020

Saskatoon, July 14, 2020 – Thanks to a significant investment from Canada Life, READ Saskatoon is poised to increase its program offerings and to expand to communities outside of Saskatoon.

Sheryl Harrow-Yurach, Executive Director of READ Saskatoon said “Nearly one third of Saskatchewan children arrive for their first day of kindergarten not ready to learn. Province-wide one in three adults struggle with literacy. If the experience in Saskatoon is any indicator, there is demand for READ Saskatoon’s literacy programming throughout the province. READ Saskatoon is looking for the most efficient and effective way to roll out its literacy programming to communities across the province and we are grateful to Canada Life for helping us meet this need.”

“Canada Life is pleased to work with READ Saskatoon to help empower children so they’re ready to enjoy and succeed in school,” said Debbie Down, Director, Community Relations, Canada Life. “We believe READ’s family literacy program can make a positive impact on the future of youth, which in turn affects the community and province’s future. We’re proud our support will allow the program to expand in Saskatchewan.”

“Knowledge is empowering,” says Harrow-Yurach. “READ Saskatoon family literacy programs focus on supporting parents and caregivers as their children’s first and most important teacher. Our programs are developed on of the foundations of emerging literacies and results are carefully monitored to demonstrate families are learning and growing together.”

Over the next two years, READ Saskatoon will work to increase access to family literacy programs and events throughout the province. Partners such as the Southeast Regional Library System are excited to work with READ Saskatoon in this expansion. Working together they aim to be key part in the province’s efforts to ensure 90% of children entering kindergarten are ready to learn.

About Canada Life Assurance Company

Canada Life is a leading insurance, wealth management and benefits provider focused on improving the financial, physical and mental well-being of Canadians. For more than 170 years, individuals, families and business owners across Canada have trusted us to provide sound guidance and deliver on the promises we’ve made.

As of January 1, 2020, Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life became one company – Canada Life, and today, we proudly serve more than 13 million customer relationships from coast to coast to coast.

About READ Saskatoon

Established in 1979, READ Saskatoon is a volunteer literacy organization that provides adult, family and financial literacy services to individuals and families. Literacy programs are delivered by staff and trained volunteers. Their vision is to help support a community that values literacy, and they believe that lifelong habits contribute to strong and resilient communities.

Contact:

Sheryl Harrow-Yurach
Executive Director, READ Saskatoon
306-652-5448

Liz Kulyk
Director, Media & Public Affairs, Canada Life
204-391-8515